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Billboard unveiling set Saturday Structure under construction near Cameron Bridge for Vision for Growth
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share thisSHAMOKIN - Vision for Growth (V4G) will unveil its 8-by-20-foot billboard mural saluting the region's coal mining heritage in a ceremony at 10 a.m. Saturday.
The billboard is under construction at the north end of the washhouse at the former Glen Burn Colliery property along Route 61 just south of the Cameron Bridge.
The colorful scene reminiscent of mining's heyday will tell travelers they are entering "The Gateway to the Coal Region."
Richard Earl, pastor of Mountainside Assembly of God Church, Coal Township, and V4G president, said the mural helps fulfill the vision V4G established over the past two years.
"It is hoped that the mural will restore both a sense of place and a sense of pride in the community and its heritage," he said.
The group's stated purpose, he said, is, "Vision for Growth, through ambassadors of the Lord Jesus Christ, will initiate real and lasting social and spiritual transformation in our community for the glory of God. We will break down barriers and build bridges to mobilize people toward actions that will renew hope and encourage unity."
V4G arranged a cleanup day at the washhouse property last year, and nearly 100 people showed up in what organizers called an inspiring display of community spirit.
V4G sees the billboard as the next step in beautifying the property, and former Sen. Ed Helfrick and Ed Helfrick Jr. have agreed to allow the billboard construction on their property.
The Northumberland County Council for the Arts has partnered with V4G to help fund the project, donating $1,500 of the estimated $2,800 cost. They are hoping the public will be inspired to make contributions, which are tax-deductible, to cover the remaining $1,300.
Local artists Dave Zielinskie and Shawn McGugan have painted and are constructing the billboard.
Dignitaries have been invited, and hot cider will be served at Saturday's ceremony.
Tax-deductible contributions can be sent to Vision for Growth, c/o Mountainside Assembly of God Church, 1900 Trevorton Road, Coal Township 17866.
For more information, contact Earl at 648-8818.
4 posted comments
Our mission is long term, not short. We intend to continue doing things to mobilize and inspire. Clean up efforts, community improvement and other ideas to bless the community are always welcome. Visit our website at http://www.visionforgrowth.org/index.html or join our Facebook group and get involved.
I hear the artist is the Art Teacher at Shamokin Area and is really talented. I also heard that he does a lot more for our community and schools. Cheers to him!
before they can have a "vision" for growth. As qwith things in
the past It always ends up being just a vision, never any substance.